Collection: Weight Loss

What You Need to Know About Weight Loss Supplements

What Are Weight Loss Supplements?

Weight loss supplements are designed to support your efforts to reduce body fat, improve metabolism and help manage appetite. Whether you’re aiming to control cravings, boost daily calorie burn or complement a balanced diet and exercise routine, a weight loss supplement can act as an additional tool alongside healthy lifestyle habits.

These formulas typically include ingredients such as caffeine, green tea extract, fibre blends, thermogenic compounds and metabolism-supporting herbs. Research shows that caffeine and green tea catechins can assist with metabolic rate and fat oxidation when combined with regular activity and proper nutrition (Hursel et al., 2011).

Benefits of Weight Loss Supplements

People commonly use weight loss supplements to:

• Support appetite control

• Increase metabolic rate and daily energy expenditure

• Enhance focus and energy during dieting

• Assist with fat oxidation

• Help maintain consistency during a calorie deficit

A combination of stimulants, plant extracts and thermogenic ingredients has been shown in studies to modestly enhance fat loss when paired with calorie restriction and exercise (Belza et al., 2012).

As for safety, many wonder whether weight loss supplements are “bad” for you. The truth is: they are generally safe when used as directed, but stimulant-containing formulas—especially those with caffeine—may affect how individuals tolerate them. Always follow serving instructions, choose reputable brands and speak with a healthcare professional if you have medical conditions or take medications.

If you want to explore options, check out our Top 10 Fat Burners to see Australia’s most popular choices.

What’s in Weight Loss Supplements?

Ingredients vary between brands, but most weight loss supplements include:

• Caffeine or natural stimulants: to increase metabolism, energy and alertness (Acheson et al., 2004).

• Green tea extract (EGCG): researched for its role in fat oxidation and thermogenesis.

• L-carnitine: included in some blends to support energy production from fatty acids.

• Fibre blends or appetite-supporting ingredients: to help maintain fullness.

• Thermogenic herbs like cayenne or grains of paradise: included for their warming, calorie-expending effects.

Not all weight loss supplements rely on stimulants. Stimulant-free (non-stim) formulas use ingredients such as carnitine, chromium or fibre blends, making them suitable for evening use or for anyone sensitive to caffeine.

A common question is: How long do weight loss supplements take to work?
Most stimulant-based supplements begin working within 20–30 minutes, enhancing energy, thermogenesis and focus. Visible fat-loss results, however, depend on consistent use combined with a calorie deficit, generally showing within several weeks depending on diet, exercise and individual factors.